FBI Investigates MSC Seascape Cruise Ship Homicide

The FBI is investigating the death of a female passenger aboard an MSC Cruises ship as a homicide after a woman was found dead inside a cabin during a Caribbean cruise departing from Galveston, Texas. A 48-year-old Texas man has been arrested and federally charged with murder in connection with the incident.

The incident occurred Sunday, November 8, 2026, aboard the MSC Seascape, which had departed Galveston earlier that day. Authorities ordered the vessel to return to port as investigators began examining the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.

The suspect was identified as Jason Leon Watford, 48, of Tyler, Texas. According to the federal criminal complaint, Watford is accused of striking and strangling the female passenger following an argument inside their cabin.

What Happened Aboard the MSC Seascape?

According to federal court documents, the alleged incident began with an argument between Watford and the female passenger while they were dining at a restaurant aboard the cruise ship.

Investigators allege that Watford returned to the couple’s cabin before the woman followed approximately 25 minutes later. The disagreement allegedly continued inside the room before escalating into a physical confrontation.

During an interview with FBI investigators, Watford reportedly admitted to striking the woman multiple times and choking her with his hands and arm. According to the criminal complaint, he allegedly applied pressure to her neck for approximately four to five minutes before releasing his grip because he became exhausted.

The complaint further alleges that the woman remained motionless on the cabin floor for approximately 10 minutes. Watford reportedly did not contact ship security or medical personnel to request assistance.

Cruise Ship Housekeeper Discovers Woman’s Body

The investigation developed after a cruise ship housekeeper knocked on the cabin door shortly after 9 p.m. Sunday to deliver towels. According to the criminal complaint, the housekeeper noticed what appeared to be blood on Watford’s hands and clothing. She also reportedly saw a woman lying face down and motionless on the cabin floor.

The employee alerted other members of the cruise ship’s staff, who subsequently returned to the cabin. The woman was found deceased with multiple facial injuries. Investigators reviewed surveillance footage from the ship, which reportedly showed Watford entering the cabin around 7:46 p.m. The female passenger entered approximately 25 minutes later. The footage also reportedly showed Watford leaving the cabin in different clothing before sitting in the hallway outside the room.

FBI Arrests Texas Man on Murder Charges

Following the discovery, FBI investigators interviewed Watford about the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death. Federal authorities subsequently took him into custody and charged him with murder. The criminal complaint alleges that he admitted to the physical assault during questioning.

Watford was scheduled to make his initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge in Galveston on Tuesday, November 10. If convicted, he faces up to life in federal prison and a possible fine of up to $250,000. Authorities have not publicly identified the female passenger or disclosed her relationship to Watford.

MSC Cruises Responds to Homicide Investigation

 confirmed that authorities instructed the company to return the MSC Seascape to the Port of Galveston following the reported incident. The cruise line said it was cooperating fully with investigators and providing support to those affected.

The ship subsequently departed Galveston and resumed its planned itinerary. The MSC Seascape operates Caribbean cruises from Texas and can accommodate nearly 5,900 passengers, with more than 1,600 crew members.

FBI Investigation Continues

The FBI’s Texas City Resident Agency is leading the investigation with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, Port of Galveston Police Department and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The woman’s death occurred while the vessel was sailing in international waters in the Gulf of Mexico. Federal authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged killing and gathering evidence for the criminal proceedings. The case remains ongoing. Watford is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.